Date: April 17, 2025
Mayem, Goa: severe fungal outbreak has struck chilli farms in Mayem, Goa, decimating nearly 60% of the local harvest and sparking fears of a broader agricultural crisis. Local farmers report that the disease, which first appeared in chilli plants, has now begun affecting nearby okra and onion crops as well.
“The leaves started turning black and falling off, and the fruit rotted before it could be harvested,” said Rajan Gaonkar, a chilli farmer from Mayem. “We tried using traditional treatments, but nothing worked. Most of us have lost more than half our crop.”
Agricultural officers are currently investigating the exact strain of the fungus, while issuing advisories to nearby villages to prevent further spread. Preliminary reports suggest the rapid onset may be linked to recent unseasonal rains and high humidity—conditions ideal for fungal growth.
Experts warn that if the infection continues to spread unchecked, it could have a cascading impact on food supply and farmer livelihoods across the region.
Farmers are now urging the government to provide emergency assistance and fungicide support to contain the damage and safeguard the remaining crops.
